Aufruf FAQ.
What is an Aufruf?
It is a centuries-old tradition to initiate the round of wedding celebrations by having the groom called to recite the blessing over the Torah at the Sabbath service before the wedding. The purpose of the synagogue appearance is to publicly announce the forth-coming nuptials. This custom probably originated from legal requirements in medieval France and Germany when community leaders were responsible for ascertaining that there were no impediments to the validity of the marriage before permission could be granted to the couple to hold the wedding in the marriage halls. The most effective way of accomplishing this was the synagogue announcement.
On June 4, the Saturday before the wedding, Michael will be called to recite the blessing over the torah. A meal will follow.
Are there rules I need to follow in synagogue?
Thanks for asking -- yes. Information was included in the invitation envelope, and we will provide more details soon. Key items:
- men should cover their head
- no carrying items into the synagogue (purses, etc.)
- please refrain from talking to the extent you can
- men and women sit separately; this will be obvious when you walk in
Should I come to the Aufruf?
By all means. It is not required for your attendance at the wedding but we will be happy to have you. (Being a guest of the bride or groom is not particularly important, especially since Simone will be present.)
How do I get to the Aufruf?
Click here.
It is a centuries-old tradition to initiate the round of wedding celebrations by having the groom called to recite the blessing over the Torah at the Sabbath service before the wedding. The purpose of the synagogue appearance is to publicly announce the forth-coming nuptials. This custom probably originated from legal requirements in medieval France and Germany when community leaders were responsible for ascertaining that there were no impediments to the validity of the marriage before permission could be granted to the couple to hold the wedding in the marriage halls. The most effective way of accomplishing this was the synagogue announcement.
On June 4, the Saturday before the wedding, Michael will be called to recite the blessing over the torah. A meal will follow.
Are there rules I need to follow in synagogue?
Thanks for asking -- yes. Information was included in the invitation envelope, and we will provide more details soon. Key items:
- men should cover their head
- no carrying items into the synagogue (purses, etc.)
- please refrain from talking to the extent you can
- men and women sit separately; this will be obvious when you walk in
Should I come to the Aufruf?
By all means. It is not required for your attendance at the wedding but we will be happy to have you. (Being a guest of the bride or groom is not particularly important, especially since Simone will be present.)
How do I get to the Aufruf?
Click here.
